Through the Lens of History: Powerful Images That Shaped the Last Century

A single photograph can convey a thousand thoughts, feelings and emotions better than any descriptive caption. Since photography was invented, the human race has evolved in more ways than one, and we have probably seen the most rapid change during the 20th century. Photographers have made sure to document the biggest moments in the history of the last century.

From the first woman in a bathing suit to Marilyn Monroe before she rose to the pinnacle of fame, we reveal some of the most controversial, euphoric, intriguing and shocking photos to be taken in the 20th century.

Hello Norma Jean, 1944

The former-brunette Norma Jean Mortenson had a difficult childhood, which saw her move from foster home to foster home in her formative younger years. By age 16 she was married and hidden from the world, working in a U.S. military factory. Little did she know that fame was waiting for her just around the corner, and in 1944, her life changed forever.

At just 18 years old, young Norma Jean was introduced to a photographer from the U.S. Army Air Force’s First Motion Picture Unit at work. This meeting led to a successful pin-up modeling career and some film contracts, and eventually, she signed with Fox in 1951. She became one of Hollywood’s most famous stars and an American sex symbol. Her sex appeal was unrivaled, even against the exotic European beauties of the time.

The Wisdom Segment

I
Ancient Korea was located on the eastern coast of the Asian peninsula. Since the Neolithic age, it has been continuously inhabited. At first, Korea was divided into different tribes; eventually, three organized kingdoms emerged, Goguryeo in the north, and Baekje and Silla in the southern part of Ancient Korea (1-7 century CE).

II
Goguryeo was the kingdom that dominated the north of Korea. It was always in rivalry with the Baekje and Silla Kingdoms. During the 5th and 6th century, Goguryeo flourished and left a rich cultural heritage, but was ultimately defeated by the alliance of the Tang and Silla kingdom in 668 CE.

III
Another kingdom that ruled ancient Korea in the 1st century was Baekje. It was noted for its exceptional culture, which was mostly derived from the influence of the Japanese. The Baekje kingdom considered themselves as descendants of the tribe of Buyeo and ruled over Ancient Korea for six centuries.

IV
The kingdom of Silla ruled south-eastern Korea from the 1st to the 7th century CE. They allied with the Tang Dynasty of China to conquer what remained of Korea. In 669-935 CE, the Unified Silla Kingdom united to defeat its competitors for the land.

V
Confucianism was the first religion of the Korean states. After having international relations with China, Taoism and Buddhism were introduced. The states still followed Confucian principles as it was essential to get a position within the administration. However, Buddhism was more widely practiced and soon had temples and monasteries across the country.

VI
Korean pagodas were created during the Three Kingdoms period. The Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas located at Bulguksa Temple near Gyeongju were two outstanding contributions to Buddhist architecture. The Mireuksaji Stone Pagoda was the largest Buddhist temple built in the ancient kingdom of Baekje on the Korean peninsula.